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Is managerial ability a catalyst for driving digital transformation in enterprises? An empirical analysis from internal and external pressure perspectives

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Listed:
  • Weilin Wu
  • Jing Song
  • Lei Lu
  • Hongxia Guo

Abstract

In a dynamic and competitive business environment, managerial ability emerges as a pivotal strategic factor for capitalizing on new opportunities within the technological revolution and digital transformation of enterprises. Based on data from Chinese A-share listed firms spanning from 2009 to 2019, this study integrates insights from the upper echelons theory and the behavioral theory of the firm to investigate the moderating roles of historical aspiration shortfalls and industrial competitiveness on the relationship between managerial ability and enterprise digital transformation from internal and external pressure perspectives. Our findings indicate a positive impact of managerial ability on digital transformation. The relationship between managerial ability and digital transformation is reinforced by historical aspiration shortfalls; nevertheless, industrial competitiveness has attenuated the aforementioned relationship. This study contributes to a better understanding of the strategic implications of managerial ability within the context of organizational innovation strategies. It offers valuable insights into the decision-making processes of firms as they navigate the challenges of digital transformation within an ever-evolving business environment.

Suggested Citation

  • Weilin Wu & Jing Song & Lei Lu & Hongxia Guo, 2024. "Is managerial ability a catalyst for driving digital transformation in enterprises? An empirical analysis from internal and external pressure perspectives," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 19(2), pages 1-30, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pone00:0293454
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293454
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. André Hanelt & René Bohnsack & David Marz & Cláudia Antunes Marante, 2021. "A Systematic Review of the Literature on Digital Transformation: Insights and Implications for Strategy and Organizational Change," Journal of Management Studies, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 58(5), pages 1159-1197, July.
    2. Jibin Li & Joseph T F Lau & Phoenix K H Mo & Xuefen Su & Anise M S Wu & Jie Tang & Zuguo Qin, 2016. "Validation of the Social Networking Activity Intensity Scale among Junior Middle School Students in China," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 11(10), pages 1-14, October.
    3. Zhuo, Chengfeng & Chen, Jin, 2023. "Can digital transformation overcome the enterprise innovation dilemma: Effect, mechanism and effective boundary," Technological Forecasting and Social Change, Elsevier, vol. 190(C).
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    1. Afrin Fauzya Rizana & Iwan Inrawan Wiratmadja & Muhammad Akbar, 2025. "Exploring Capabilities for Digital Transformation in the Business Context: Insight from a Systematic Literature Review," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(9), pages 1-29, May.

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